Top 10 Family friendly movies

Julie Bielenberg is a Denver-based writer who served as managing editor for a regional home and lifestyle publication before starting Tweeter Communications, her editorial services boutique. With a BA in journalism from the University of...

Classic family films

From cartoons to characters from the 1960s, there is at least one film in this top ten list that will please your entire family. Classics, new features and legendary tales will help bring smiles, laughter and maybe even some tears to your next family movie night.

E.T.

E.T. phone home! Every kid needs to know and understand the meaning of this legendary line. The 1982 Steven Spielberg classic portrays a lonely boy, Elliott, who befriends an alien. His darling sister played by Drew Barrymore is sarcastic and beyond lovable. Elliot begins a deep bond and psychic connection with the alien, who eventually returns to his spaceship for his homeland. Tears and laughter accompany this flick, and it's all worth it for one of the most famous films of the 20th century.

Toy Story

Tom Hanks and Tim Allen provide the voices behind Woody and Buzz Lightyear, two toys, whom dual it out only to become allies in the long run. This computer-animated classic by Disney / Pixar portrays the emotions of children's toys. Buzz, Woody and their gang take viewers on a journey through their lives allowing them to see how much toys care for their children. Humorous and touching, the franchise went on to produce two more successful films.

The Sound of Music

Julie Andrews is brilliant in this musical based on the original 1956 play. The hills of Austria aren't just alive with the sound of music, but rather the entire soundtrack. Your family will be singing along as you visit with the von Trapp family. It is said this is the third highest grossing film of all time, proving its longevity and popularity.

The Lion King

The 1994 animated film transports viewers to Pride Rock in Africa. The story is one of growing of age and maturity through the eyes of Simba, a lion cub. His challenges and triumphs outline the "Circle of Life" with an added bonus of an Oscar, Grammy and Golden Globe winning song and additional favorites sung by Elton John.

Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory

Either the original 1971 classic with Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka or the more recent version released in 2005 starring Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka; either will please the family. As five lucky children and their chaperons navigate through the mystical sugarcoated world of the candy factory, laughs will abound from the chaotic scenarios. The Oompa Loompas are simply darling with their sarcastic songs. Stock up on candy, this movie will leave you with a serious sugar craving.

The Little Mermaid

Under the sea is truly a world of adventure and darling characters. Disney had a solid run in the late 80s and early 90s and this flick kicked it off. Ariel, Sebastian, Flounder and friends will make anyone want to be a part of their world. The music score is phenomenal and your whole family will be happily singing along.

Ratatouille

The 2007 computer-animated film is based on the life of Remy, a rat who dreams of becoming a chef. The adorable rodent befriends a garbage boy at a Parisian restaurant and the adventures begin. From restaurant mishaps to closings, the end of the film is a sweet tribute to friendship and teamwork.

The Princess Bride

The 1987 movie is a hilarious spin on the traditional fairy tale. With classic comedian Billy Crystal playing Miracle Max and an entourage of characters mocking everything imaginable, this is a comedy favorite. The film has a cult following and is great for multiple-aged children.

Back to the Future

Michael J. Fox is brilliant in this timeless classic about Marty McFly and his adventures back in time with "Doc" to 1955. They travel from then-present day 1985 back to the teenage days of Marty's parents. He alters their lives, which proves for the better when he eventually returns to 1985 at the film's end and is welcomed by his parents happily married and siblings in better situations than before.

Mary Poppins

Even though Mary Poppins first flew over chilrden's homes back in 1964, her magic touch is still enviable today. The film stars screen legends Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke and has wonderful songs for which the whole family to sing along. Mary Poppins won Julie Andrews an Oscar, and "Chim Chim Cher-ee" best song. While not the newest of films, it will never go out of taste or popuarity.